Oldham DAAT

Oldham residents urged to be alcohol aware

Oldham residents urged Alcohol Aware this week

Monday 19th October marks the start of Alcohol Awareness Week 2009 and Oldham Drug and Alcohol Action Team are encouraging residents to use this week as an opportunity to consider the amount of alcohol they consume.  

Oldham DAAT have recently appointed a new alcohol coordinator Richard Kubilius who is encouraging residents to keep a drink diary, and will also do the same.   "It is very easy to not realise how much you are drinking, especially when drinking at home, those units creep up, and before you know it you're over the low-risk guidelines. That is why I am encouraging all readers of the Chronicle, who drink alcohol to complete a drink diary for alcohol awareness week. I will be doing the same and I will post my results on the DAAT website at the end of the week.  

If, at the end of the week it looks like you are drinking too much there are some simple tips to try:  

Get hydrated - It's easy to get in the habit of downing a few swift pints at lunchtime or on your way home, but who enjoys a mid-afternoon or early evening hangover? Keep your drinks to a minimum.. And if you do drink, try alternating your drinks so that you have water or juice in between the alcohol. Keeping yourself hydrated will leave you feeling a whole lot better.

Habit forming -Variety is the spice of life, and helps to break bad habits. If you associate a certain activity, such as watching TV, with a drink, listen to your favourite album instead, or cook yourself a nicer meal with the money saved from the wine.

Try something new - Tackle the link in your mind between alcohol and relaxation. If you reach for a pint after a day's work, try having a steaming bath, going for a swift walk or a yoga class.

Get money wise - With your drink diary in hand, tot up how much money you have spent on alcohol in the previous week or month. Work out how much you could save by cutting back and choose a gift for yourself as an incentive.

Slow down - Recognise when you're drinking too quickly. Sometimes you might just be thirsty rather than really wanting an alcoholic drink. Down some water or a soft drink first, and see if you still want that pint. If you do drink booze, sip your drinks more slowly.  You may find you rediscover the taste of good wine or your favourite beer that you've been missing by guzzling.'  

If you are concerned about your drinking you can book an appointment with one of our Brief Interventions Workers at ADS- 0161 624 9595